CHICAGO BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Aboard with Taylor Breutzmann: Chicago Harbor Days and Playpen Afternoons
A 3–4 hour private yacht charter departing 31st Street Harbor (J Dock) with Knot My Boat Charters, led by captain Taylor Breutzmann.
Aboard with Taylor Breutzmann: Chicago Harbor Days and Playpen Afternoons.
Join Taylor, a Florida-bred yacht expert and congenial captain, for a tailored day on Chicago’s lakefront—cruising to favored spots like The Playpen or Monroe Harbor aboard a fully equipped charter that balances easygoing fun with capable seamanship.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Personable, boat‑smart leadership
Taylor brings lifelong boating experience and a friendly, outgoing approach; he knows when to engage and when to give guests space so groups can shape a day that suits them.
The Playpen and Monroe Harbor
Popular stops include The Playpen—the top daytime spot for anchored socializing—plus Monroe Harbor and, optionally, passages into the Chicago River for a different city perspective.
Fully equipped charters for easy days afloat
Most boats come with Bluetooth stereo, cooler, fridge/freezer, sink and a restroom; guests should bring ice and are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
What the day feels like
How the charter unfolds
A typical outing is a relaxed, social cruise: meet at J Dock in 31st Street Harbor, board a fully equipped vessel, then set a course for favored anchors like The Playpen or Monroe Harbor. Taylor adapts each charter to the group’s tone—more party or more laid-back—and manages navigation, allowing guests to focus on the water, company and the soundtrack.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of a Taylor Breutzmann charter—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring ice (boats may not provide it), food and beverages you plan to consume; boats typically have a cooler, fridge/freezer, Bluetooth stereo, sink and a restroom. Harbor facilities include bathrooms, showers and nearby food options.
Charters typically run 3–4 hours; note that a lake-to-river round trip can take up to 45 minutes, which may be tight for shorter bookings.
Meet at 31st Street Harbor on J Dock; use rideshare and follow the JKL doors to reach J Dock (just past Salerno’s). The walk from the drop-off may require assistance with heavy items.
Starting rate is $100/hour; rates may rise for larger boats or peak dates. Captain fees are non‑refundable if cancelled within 7 days of the charter.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When do I pay the captain?
Payment for the captain is due by the end of the charter; you may also pay the captain fee before departing the dock and add gratuity after you return.
Why am I being asked to pay a deposit?
A deposit confirms your date, time and boat and prevents scheduling confusion such as multiple captains booked for the same charter.
What is the typical gratuity?
Gratuity is optional but appreciated; a typical tip is 10–20% of the charter fee (not including the captain’s fee).
Where do we meet for the charter?
The meeting point is 31st Street Harbor, J Dock—enter through the JKL doors and find J Dock on the left just past Salerno’s; rideshare is recommended.
What amenities are on board?
Most boats include a Bluetooth stereo, cooler, fridge/freezer, sink and a restroom. Guests should bring ice; ice may also be available at Salerno’s or the harbor office.
Where can we go during the charter?
Popular destinations include The Playpen, Monroe Harbor and the Chicago River; be aware that transiting from the lake to the river and back can take up to 45 minutes.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes—you’re welcome to bring food, drinks and alcohol; just remember to bring ice for coolers.